Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2014	Jul. 31, 2013	Jul. 31, 2014	Jul. 31, 2013	Oct. 31, 2013
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill accumulated impairment loss	$ 232,789		$ 232,789		$ 232,789
Intangible assets, amortization expense	6,150	5,550	18,790	17,034
Advanced Technology Systems [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill accumulated impairment loss	229,173		229,173		229,173
Industrial Coating Systems [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill accumulated impairment loss	$ 3,616		$ 3,616		$ 3,616